In This Article

Need a sunny retreat with natural springs and horse country charm? Head to Ocala! Located in central Florida, Ocala is renowned for its equestrian culture. I enjoy hiking, paddling, and small-town Southern hospitality here.

Ocala, FL Highlights:

  • Swim or snorkel at Silver Springs State Park
  • Discover horse country at the World Equestrian Center
  • Hike and ride through the Ocala National Forest
  • Visit the Appleton Museum of Art
  • Explore historic Downtown Ocala

Best Time to Visit Ocala, FL

The best time to visit Ocala is from October through April when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor exploration. Spring and fall are especially great for hiking.

How to Get to Ocala, FL

  • If you are traveling by car: Ocala is located along I-75, about 1.5 hours from Orlando or Tampa. It's 40 minutes from Gainesville.
  • By Plane: Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) are the nearest major airports. Ocala International Airport serves general aviation.
  • By Bus: Greyhound and local shuttle services connect Ocala with regional cities and destinations across Florida.

Where to Stay in Ocala, FL

  • World Equestrian Center – The Equestrian Hotel has refine rooms
  • Hilton Garden Inn Ocala Downtown is located near shops, parks, and restaurants.
  • Shamrock Cove Innis located just steps from historic downtown Ocala.

Best Things to Do in Ocala, FL

1. Hike, Swim, and Explore Nature’s Playground at Ocala National Forest

Rating: ★★★★★

Hike, Swim, and Explore Nature’s Playground at Ocala National Forest

© Courtesy of Wilfred - Fotolia.com

  • What is Ocala National Forest?
    • Ocala National Forest is a large sand scrub pine forest located in Central Florida.
    • The forest is known for its natural hot springs and diverse recreational opportunities.
  • What is Alexander Springs Recreational Area?
    • Alexander Springs is a beautiful freshwater spring located within Ocala National Forest.
    • The spring is easily accessible to tourists and offers clear, turquoise waters.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy?
    • Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the 72-degree Fahrenheit waters.
    • Additional activities in the area include:
      • Fishing
      • Canoeing
      • Off-road ATV riding
  • What amenities are available?
    • The area features picnic areas and paved walking trails around the spring.
    • A campground is available with spaces for both tents and RVs.

Address: County Road 445 Altoona, FL 32702 , Phone: 352-669-3522

2. Discover Fine Art and Cultural Treasures at the Appleton Museum

Discover Fine Art and Cultural Treasures at the Appleton Museum

© Appleton Museum of Art

  • What is the Appleton Museum of Art?
    • Located on the campus of the College of Central Florida, the Appleton Museum of Art is one of the premiere destinations for fine art in Florida.
    • The museum consists of five galleries and an auditorium that surround a beautifully landscaped courtyard.
  • What kind of art and exhibits are on display?
    • The museum features an expansive collection of European art, artifacts, and design, which are displayed year-round.
    • Various traveling exhibits are also showcased throughout the year, offering visitors new and diverse artistic experiences.
  • What events and programs does the museum offer?
    • The museum hosts special classes, lectures, and art shows to educate and inspire the public.
    • In addition, the museum organizes competitions and community enrichment programs to encourage artistic engagement.

Address: Appleton Museum of Art, Ocala, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Ocala, FL 34470 , Phone: 352-291-4455

3. Step Into the Fast Lane at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

Step Into the Fast Lane at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

© Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

  • Who is "Big Daddy" Don Garlits?
    • “Big Daddy” Don Garlits is regarded as the father of drag racing, having achieved immense success in the sport.
    • Over his forty-year career, he won 144 national event titles and seventeen world championships.
    • Garlits not only raced but also designed and fabricated the cars he drove, making a lasting impact on drag racing technology.
  • What can visitors see at the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing?
    • The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing houses a collection of Don’s famous dragsters, allowing visitors to see the cars that made history.
    • The museum also features classic cars, racing memorabilia, and a gift shop where fans can find unique souvenirs.
  • Is there a chance to see Don Garlits in person?
    • Don and his wife Pat live next door to the museum, so visitors may even catch a glimpse of Big Daddy outside mowing the grass.

Address: Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, 13700 SW 16th Ave Ocala, FL 34473 , Phone: 352-245-8661

4. Meet Majestic Horses and Tour the Famous Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

Meet Majestic Horses and Tour the Famous Gypsy Gold Horse Farm

© Courtesy of alexanderbull - Fotolia.com

  • How did the Gypsy Vanner breed come to Florida?
    • In 1995, during a trip to England, Dennis and Cindy Thompson became fascinated by the stunning black and white horses they saw on an English farm.
    • They exported sixteen of these horses back to Florida and worked to have the Gypsy Vanner breed officially recognized.
    • Today, Dennis continues to breed and sell these beautiful horses on his Ocala farm.
  • Can visitors see the Gypsy Vanner horses?
    • On certain days , visitors can take a walking tour of the farm and get an up-close and personal experience with this unique breed.
    • Private group tours are also available and must be booked in advance.

Address: Gypsy Gold Horse Farm, 12501 SW 8th Ave Ocala, FL 34473 , Phone: 866-497-7982

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

5. Paddle, Camp, and Hike Through Pristine Wilderness at Juniper Prairie

Paddle, Camp, and Hike Through Pristine Wilderness at Juniper Prairie

© Courtesy of tsvetock - Fotolia.com

  • What is the Juniper Prairie Wilderness Area?
    • The 14,000-acre Juniper Prairie Wilderness Area is one of four wilderness areas in the Ocala National Forest.
    • It is a pristine example of an untouched sand pine scrub forest with no roads or motor vehicle access.
  • What types of habitats can visitors explore?
    • Walking trails cross the area, providing access to diverse habitats such as:
      • Marsh
      • Hardwood swamp
      • Grass prairie
      • Pine flatwoods
    • More details about these habitats can be found at the on-site interpretive center.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy?
    • Guests can paddle across the wetlands in canoes, with rentals available at nearby Juniper Springs.
  • Is camping available?
    • Tent camping is available at Juniper Prairie.
    • Campers must bring their own drinking water.

6. Catch Live Performances and Local Talent at Ocala Civic Theatre

Catch Live Performances and Local Talent at Ocala Civic Theatre

© Ocala Civic Theatre

  • What is the Ocala Civic Theatre?
    • The Ocala Civic Theatre is a cultural hub for the theatre arts in Central Florida.
    • The theatre stages twelve productions per year and hosts touring productions.
  • What types of performances can be seen?
    • Visitors can enjoy a variety of performances, including:
      • Plays
      • Musicals
      • Concerts
      • Special performances
  • Are there educational programs available?
    • The theatre offers educational classes and workshops for children ages 4 to 18.
    • Continuing education is available for adult students.
    • Topics covered include:
      • Movement
      • Improvisation
      • Musical performance
      • Technical aspects of staging a theatre production
  • How can tickets be purchased?
    • Tickets can be purchased:
      • Online
      • By phone
      • At the theatre box office
    • Season passes are also available for frequent attendees.

Address: Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd Ocala, FL 34470 , Phone: 352-236-2274

7. If You’re Craving Classic French Fare, Dine at La Cuisine

If You’re Craving Classic French Fare, Dine at La Cuisine

© La Cuisine French Restaurant

  • What is La Cuisine French Restaurant?
    • La Cuisine French Restaurant brings traditional French cuisine to the heart of Florida.
    • The restaurant serves classic French favorites, prepared in the traditional style using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible.
  • What dishes are offered at La Cuisine?
    • Guests can enjoy a variety of authentic French dishes, including:
      • Escargot
      • French onion soup
      • Duck à l’orange
      • Ratatouille
  • Who founded La Cuisine?
    • The restaurant was established in 2009 by Patrice Perron, a native of Lyon, France.
    • Perron trained at some of the finest restaurants in France before bringing his expertise to Florida.
  • What awards and recognitions has La Cuisine received?
    • La Cuisine has won four Golden Spoon awards for excellence in dining.
    • The restaurant has also been featured on The Travel Channel.

Address: La Cuisine French Restaurant, 48 SW 1st Ave Ocala, FL 34471 , Phone: 352-433-2570

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

8. Bike or Walk Shady, Peaceful Paths at the Belleview-Santos Trail

Bike or Walk Shady, Peaceful Paths at the Belleview-Santos Trail

© Courtesy of Piotr - Fotolia.com

  • What types of landscapes can be found in Central Florida?
    • Central Florida is home to a variety of landscapes and ecosystems, including scrub pine forests and cypress swamps.
  • What is the Belleview-Santos Trail?
    • The Belleview-Santos Trail is a 4 ½ mile loop trail located just outside of Ocala.
    • It is a great place for visitors to experience the Florida wilderness up close.
  • What amenities are available at the trailhead?
    • The trailhead offers restrooms, picnic tables, and a paved parking lot for visitors.
  • Who can use the trail?
    • The trail is open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders.
  • Is camping available nearby?
    • Visitors who want to stay the night or explore longer hikes can use the Santos campsite located nearby.

9. Relax and Reflect Amid Beautiful Gardens at Sholom Park

Relax and Reflect Amid Beautiful Gardens at Sholom Park

© Courtesy of MinhHa - Fotolia.com

  • What is Sholom Park?
    • Sholom Park is a peaceful retreat located in Ocala, Florida, where guests can visit to reflect and seek tranquility and peace.
  • How large is the park and what kind of landscaping does it feature?
    • The park spans 44 acres and is designed with a mix of native plants and carefully chosen trees, shrubs, and perennials.
  • What are some of the main features of Sholom Park?
    • The park is made up of eleven beautifully landscaped areas, including:
      • A formal garden
      • An azalea trail
      • A labyrinth
      • A ginger garden
    • Paved walkways cross the park, guiding guests from one area to the next.
  • Is there an admission fee to visit Sholom Park?
    • There is no fee for admission, and the park is open daily.
    • Donations are accepted to help provide for park maintenance.

Address: Sholom Park, 7110 SW 80TH Ave Ocala, FL 34481

Plan Your Trip